Legislative Accomplishments

Legislative Accomplishments

• Successful in getting several increases to the SC EMS GIA.
• Successful in getting SC EMS included in the Trauma System funding started in 2007. SC EMS agencies, the EMS Regional Offices, and DHEC receive 21% of the funding.
• Successful in raising Medicaid BLS rates from $98.35 in 2001 to $136.19 in 2008 and ALS rates from $131.30 in 2001 to $170.70 in 2008. This occurred while other agencies were receiving Medicaid cuts.
• Successful in getting 2 additional DHEC inspectors hired.
• Successful in getting a law passed that requires all certifying/recertifying EMT/EMTI/Paramedics in SC to undergo a federal background check. This protects the EMS agencies and, most importantly, the patients we serve.
• Successful in getting EMS Medicaid funds from being subject to two additional budget cuts in FY 2009.
• Formed a loose alliance with the SC Hospital Association, the SC Health Care Association and SCAC along with others to combine legislative efforts.
• Fought the Stretcher Van Regulation in order to maintain professional and competent care of the citizens of SC.
• Instrumental in improving a re-write of Regulation 61-7
• Worked with DHEC to improve/streamline the EMS GIA process
• Partnered with the North Central EMS Consortium to provide discounts to SCEMSA members.
• Championed the fight for EMS to be included in 25 year retirement
• Set the course both legislatively and professionally as a recognized public safety component.

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